Preserve artistry with traditional Chinese techniques
1. Backing the Artwork (关键托心)
Purpose: Stabilize delicate paper and prevent wrinkles.
Steps:
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Lightly Mist:Place artwork face down; spritz reverse side with water (prevents cracking).
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Apply Wheat Starch Paste:Using a wool brush (排刷), sweep thin paste (milk consistency) from center outward.
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Align Backing Paper:Lay backing paper (托纸) over pasted surface; smooth with stiff-bristle brush (棕刷) to banish air bubbles.
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Tension-Dry on Wall:Adhere edges to a smooth wall/board with thick paste. Air-dry 2–3 days (no direct sun!).
⚠️ Pro Tip: Paste consistency is vital! Thin for backing, thick for wall mounting.
2. Adding Borders (镶料)
Purpose: Frame the artwork aesthetically.
Steps:
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Trim Edges:Once dry, trim mounted artwork with a precision knife.
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Attach Decorative Borders:Cut colored framing paper (镶料纸); paste around the artwork’s perimeter.
3. Reinforcing the Back (覆背)
Purpose: Strengthen the mounted piece.
Steps:
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Apply Reinforcement Paper:Paste entire back with thick Xuan paper (e.g., 夹宣); smooth firmly.
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Final Wall Drying:Re-mount on wall using thick paste; dry completely (~3 days).
4. Assembling the Scroll (装轴)
Purpose: Create a functional hanging scroll.
Steps:
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Attach Scroll Rods
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Top rod (天杆): Glue lightweight wood strip to reverse top edge.
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Bottom rod (地杆): Wrap brocade-covered wooden dowel at base.
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Secure with Silk Cord
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Add hanging loops to the top rod; tie scroll with silk ribbon.
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Why Hand-Mounting Matters
"Like jade in a setting, calligraphy finds its voice through mounting."
Traditional mounting protects ink from humidity, allows future restoration, and honors the artist’s intent. For heirloom pieces, consult a master mounter.Explore our Custom Calligraphy Scroll collection —each piece honors traditions that shaped civilizations.
